Podcasts about scripture psalm

Pornography exposure is happening younger and more often than most parents realize, and it's affecting both boys and girls. In this episode, Karen and Erin Mashaw are joined by returning guest Kristen Jenson, author of Good Pictures, Bad Pictures, for a practical conversation about what to do when your child has been exposed to pornography.If you've been avoiding this awkward conversation, today's discussion will motivate you and equip you to help your child navigate this topic.Episode Recap:We want our kids to have a plan to reject pornography when they see it (1:30)Parents underestimate kids' negative online exposure (3:30)Your kid is not bad because they are curious about sex (6:00)Girls' exposure to pornography is often through literature (8:10)Take time to compose yourself before responding (13:50)Don't blame yourself (18:00)These conversations help arm our kids against the influence of porn (22:00)Your child deserves to be prepared (27:00)Scripture: Psalm 119:9 (NIV) "How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word."Discussion Questions: What emotions come up when you think about having conversations about pornography with your children?What practical steps has your family taken to create open communication around technology and online safety?What would it look like for your home to be a safe place for difficult conversations?Resources:Register for the SOAR Conference today. Become a WT+ Insider today! boaw.mom/insiderPick up a copy of Good Pictures Bad Pictures or Good Pictures, Bad Pictures Guide for GirlsArm yourself with free anti-pornography resources at Defend Young MindsConnect with Kristen online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DefendYM/Instagram: @defendyoungmindsX: @defendYMLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/defend-young-mindsWant More of This Conversation?During Wire Talk+, Kristen explains what's happening in a child's brain after pornography exposure, why these images can become "sticky," and how parents can help prevent repeated viewing from becoming a long-term struggle. Head HERE and join us for the full conversation.

SCRIPTURE- Psalm 71:5-6"For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth. Upon you I have leaned from before my birth; you are he who took me from my mother's womb. My praise is continually of you."REFLECTION- UmbertoMUSIC- "Rejoice, O Church" (St. John the Baptist Hymn)- "Our God is Greater" by Chris TomlinNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Why is prayer so hard? Many Christians believe that God hears us, loves us, and welcomes us, but our actual prayer lives often feel distracted, awkward, inconsistent, or strained. Psalm 28 gives us a deeply honest picture of prayer. David cries out in desperation, asks for mercy, wrestles with the wicked, and eventually moves into praise and confidence in God. This message explores how Psalm 28 invites us to pray honestly and expect transformation. God does not invite only polished, eloquent, spiritually confident people to pray. He invites real people with messy hearts, scattered thoughts, fear, anger, doubt, and need. In this sermon, we look at why prayer is difficult, how Psalm 28 gives us permission to come honestly before God, and how prayer transforms us as we look upward to the Lord. Because of Jesus, we can come to the Father not as strangers, but as beloved sons and daughters.

Today's Scripture: Psalm 86:1–7 What do you do when you feel so tired, stretched thin, or aware of your need that even prayer feels vulnerable? In today's episode, Dr. Alison Cook reflects on the tender image of a God who bends low to hear us. This passage gives us permission to bring our need honestly into God's presence—not as a shame statement, but as a truth statement. We explore: *Why need can feel so vulnerable *How attachment wounds shape the way we approach God *Why we often pray around our need instead of from our need *The difference between humility and shame *How God meets us in the poor and needy places of the soul Go Deeper: If you struggle to sense God's nearness, check out Dr. Alison's new book, The Secure Soul. Start reading when you pre-order now. Connect with Dr. Alison on Instagram: @dralisoncook Join 80,000+ Soul Menders in Dr. Alison's free email community for ongoing reflection and support. While Dr. Cook is a counselor, the content of this podcast and any of the products provided by Dr. Cook are not specific counseling advice nor are they a substitute for individual counseling. The content and products provided on this podcast are for informational purposes only.‍ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thanksgiving Psalms | Psalm 30 Part 3 of The Psalms: A Complete Guide to Honest Prayer with Ted ConiarisHow often do you stop to remember what God has done in your life?In this message from Psalm 30, Ted Coniaris explores the power of Thanksgiving Psalms and shows how gratitude can deepen our relationship with God. More than simply saying "thank you," biblical thanksgiving invites us to remember specific ways God has met us, rescued us, and remained faithful through every season.Psalm 30 tells the story of David's journey from self-reliance and complacency to crisis, lament, rescue, and praise. Along the way, we discover that gratitude is not merely an emotion—it's a practice that shapes our hearts and strengthens our faith.In this episode you'll learn: Why gratitude is essential for spiritual maturity  How comfort can lead to spiritual complacency  What Psalm 30 teaches about God's rescue and faithfulness  Why sharing your story of God's goodness matters  How thanksgiving strengthens both personal faith and community  Practical ways to cultivate gratitude in everyday life Whether you're currently celebrating God's faithfulness or walking through a difficult season, this message will encourage you to remember, give thanks, and share your story.Scripture: Psalm 30

The table Jesus prepares for us is an ongoing invitation to allow the heaviness of our hearts to experience a taste of joy and relief. Although our hearts can often draw back from living within the hope of the story of God's promise of rescue and never-ending joy, the mysterious presence of Jesus at the table bids us welcome. The end is the ongoing feast of which we are invited to taste and experience even now in moments together at Jesus' table. Scripture: Psalm 16

Scripture: Psalm 119:73-80Preacher: Seth Brill

Scripture: Psalm 42–43

In this installment of Metron Live, Bishop Jim Swilley continues his series on being seated in heavenly places, drawing from Ephesians 2 and Psalm 16:11. He challenges listeners to rethink joy—not as an emotional high, but as a state of presence. Using stories from his own life, the Israelites' wilderness journey, a beloved family cat nearing the end of its life, and even a tense basketball game, Bishop Jim argues that fullness of joy is found when we stop living in regret over the past or anxiety about the future and become fully present in the moment. His central revelation is that “in His presence is fullness of joy” also means learning to live in our own presence—to fully inhabit the life we are experiencing right now. Key Takeaways 1. Your Life Has a Path, Even When It Feels Circular Drawing from Psalm 16:11, Bishop Jim teaches that God shows us “the path of life,” but that path is often cyclical rather than linear. Like Israel wandering for 40 years before facing the same Jericho, many people revisit similar lessons until they learn to see their circumstances differently. Key Thought: Stop obsessing over the “should have, could have, would have” moments. Fullness of joy requires making peace with the path that brought you here. Scripture: Psalm 16:11 2. Presence Is the Gateway to Joy The core revelation of the message comes from a simple observation about a family cat that peacefully accepted the end of its life. “He was present all the way to the end.” — Bishop Jim Swilley recounting a conversation about Avery’s cat. That statement unlocked a deeper understanding of Psalm 16:11. Most people are physically present but mentally somewhere else—replaying the past, worrying about the future, or trying to solve problems that don’t yet exist. Bishop Jim shares a personal story of standing in the Gulf of Mexico on vacation while mentally sorting through future responsibilities, realizing: “My body’s in the Gulf of Mexico, but I’m not here.” — Bishop Jim Swilley Main Lesson: You cannot experience fullness of joy if you are not fully present. Scripture: Psalm 16:11 — “In Your presence is fullness of joy.” 3. Anxiety Pulls You Out of the Present Moment Whether it’s worrying about finances, relationships, aging, health, or the future, anxiety fragments attention and lowers our ability to experience joy. Bishop Jim contrasts this with Jesus’ teaching: Scriptures Referenced: Matthew 6 — Consider the lilies. Matthew 6:34 — “Take no thought for tomorrow.” The message is not irresponsibility; it is refusing to sacrifice today’s peace for tomorrow’s uncertainty. 4. Stop Rehearsing the Stories That Keep You Sick Referencing Proverbs, Bishop Jim teaches that many people unknowingly reinforce negative realities by constantly speaking about them. Scripture: Proverbs 13:12 — “Hope deferred makes the heart sick.” He argues that there is a healthy place for processing pain, counseling, and healing, but eventually there comes a point where continuing to repeat the story keeps it alive. Key Thought: There comes a time when you stop retelling the wound and start telling a new story. 5. Don’t Make Your Joy Dependent on Other People’s Approval One of the strongest practical applications of the message is the reminder that everyone wants acceptance, but joy cannot be dependent upon it. “You got to feel good about yourself whether anybody gets it or not.” — Bishop Jim Swilley Jesus serves as the model. He never sought permission from others to live in the truth of who He was. Scriptures Referenced: John 8:58 — “Before Abraham was, I am.” John 10:18 — “No man takes my life, I lay it down.” 6. God Is Not Against Pleasure Bishop Jim closes by examining the final phrase of Psalm 16:11: “At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” He contrasts this with religious systems that often treat pleasure, enjoyment, and happiness as suspicious or sinful. Using Jesus turning water into wine at Cana as an example, he argues that God is not opposed to joy, celebration, or abundance. Scripture: John 2 — The wedding at Cana. His conclusion is that many religious traditions have taught people to expect struggle, guilt, and stress, while Scripture repeatedly points toward joy, peace, and life. Memorable Quote “You can’t have fullness of joy if you’re not present.” — Bishop Jim Swilley Main Scripture Psalm 16:11 “You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Final Thought The heart of this message is simple but profound: joy is not found in fixing the past or controlling the future. It is found in fully inhabiting the present moment. According to Bishop Jim, the highest vibration, the heavenly place, and the fullness of joy are all experienced when we stop living somewhere else and become fully present to the life unfolding right in front of us.

What if the greatest thing you could give your family isn't more money, more success, or even more time?In the final message of our Overwhelmed series, Pastor Carl Nichols unpacks one of the most powerful verses in Psalm 23."You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows." — Psalm 23:5Before God ever asks you to pour into others, He wants to pour into you.In this message, you'll discover:Why identity always comes before responsibility.How the Shepherd heals the wounds you can't reach.What it means to live from overflow instead of emptiness.Why your family experiences whatever is filling your heart.The legacy every father—and every believer—should strive to leave.A full cup blesses you.An overflowing cup blesses everyone around you.Whether you're a parent, a leader, or simply feeling overwhelmed, this message will encourage you to stop striving and allow the Good Shepherd to fill your life first.

Relationships can be hard. We have broken relationships all around us because we are all so human.  Yet God shares with us His vision for a church living in unity as a family in Psalm 133.  There, David shares how sweet this experience can be. We will spend our time exploring the rich guidance scripture provides for addressing fractures in these relationships, so that we can experience Psalm 133 goodness more and more in our relationships. 

A King Over All Mark Donaldson Sermon given by Pastor Mark Donaldson on June 21, 2026 at ElmCreek Community Church in Maple Grove, MN. Scripture: Psalm 10

A VBS lesson for grownups. Pastor Jordan shares Thursday's devotional podcast from Bible Fellowship Church. [Scripture: Psalm 139]

This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on September 17, 2000. Series: Four Ways to Live, Four Ways to Love. Scripture: Psalm 103:1-2, 8-18. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

What do you do when life has knocked the faith out of you?In this heartfelt, unscripted conversation, Patience Murray shares the real thoughts she's been carrying after the Pulse anniversary, the launch of her new book, and navigating both celebration and criticism while staying grounded in her faith.This episode is a reminder that healing isn't about pretending everything is perfect—it's about returning to truth when your perspective has been shaken.Together, we talk about:✨ Protecting your peace in a world full of opinions ✨ Why God's Word is the anchor for your identity ✨ The neuroscience of rewiring your mind after trauma ✨ The intersection of faith and healing practices ✨ How community and testimony can restore hope ✨ What "borrowing faith" actually means when you're struggling ✨ Why sometimes you simply have to receive God's promises before you're able to fully believe themWhether you're rebuilding after trauma, chasing a dream that feels impossible, or simply trying to make it through another day, this conversation is an invitation to remember:It's never over. God isn't finished with you yet.If this episode encouraged you, I'd love to hear your story. Leave a review, send me a message on Instagram, or join the conversation on YouTube. We're building this healing community together.Scripture: Psalm 37:4 "Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart."Remember: Have patience. It's already done.Send us Fan Mail

This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on September 10, 2000. Series: Four Ways to Live, Four Ways to Love. Scripture: Psalm 107:31-43. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

Today's Scripture: Psalm 34: 4-8In this episode, Dr. Alison Cook reflects on what it means to bring fear into the presence of God. Instead of shaming fear or trying to force it away, she offers a compassionate way to recognize the fearful places within us and return to love. We explore:*Why fear can become a quiet but powerful inner leader*How fear and shame work together to keep us hiding*What it means to recognize fear without letting it run the whole system*Why “taste and see” invites us to experience God's goodness in an embodied way*How secure attachment with God begins as we bring fearful parts of us into loving presence Go Deeper:Recognize fearful places within through Dr. Alison's new book & workbook The Secure Soul - you can start reading today when you preorder! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SCRIPTURE- Psalm 8:2-3"O LORD, our Lord, how awesome is your name through all the earth! I will sing of your majesty above the heavens with the mouths of babes and infants."REFLECTION- Sr. KathleenMUSIC- Ave Regina Caelorum by VOCES8NOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Lament Psalms | Psalm 13 Part 2 of The Psalms: A Complete Guide to Honest PrayerFeaturing a conversation between Ted Coniaris and Aubrey Sampson, with introduction and conclusion from John Ciesniewski.What if faith isn't about pretending everything is okay?Psalm 13 shows us that some of the most faithful prayers in Scripture begin with questions, pain, and confusion. In this episode, Aubrey Sampson joins Ted Coniaris to explore the gift of lament and why honest prayer is essential for spiritual growth.Lament Psalms teach us that going deeper with God does not mean hiding our struggles—it means bringing them honestly into His presence. Rather than turning away from God in suffering, lament teaches us how to turn toward Him with our grief, doubts, fears, and unanswered questions.In this episode you'll learn: Why lament is a vital but often neglected spiritual practice  How Psalm 13 provides a model for honest prayer  Why bringing pain to God is an act of faith  How Jesus embraced lament during His suffering  Practical ways to pray through seasons of grief, disappointment, and silence Whether you're walking through a difficult season or learning how to support someone who is, this conversation offers biblical wisdom, hope, and encouragement for the journey.Scripture: Psalm 13

What do you do when you feel like you are sinking? Psalm 130 begins with a cry from the depths and becomes an invitation to wait for the Lord. This psalm teaches us how to pray honestly when we are overwhelmed by sin, sorrow, regret, or the brokenness of the world. It reminds us that if God kept a record of sins, none of us could stand, but with the Lord there is forgiveness. In this message, we explore what it means to wait on God with hope. Waiting is not passive resignation. It is active trust. Like watchmen waiting for the morning, we wait because we know the dawn will come. This sermon also points us to Jesus, who waited faithfully in the wilderness and trusted the Father where Israel failed. In Christ, we discover that God's redemption is not scarce or reluctant. It is plentiful.

Scripture: Psalm 119:65-72Preacher: Seth Brill

Scripture: Psalms 33:8-11Message from Brady Bryce, Senior MinisterFor more resources and access to everything we have going on at First, visit https://www.firstabq.orgGive here: https://firstabq.churchcenter.com/giving

Scripture: Psalm 88

Are you exhausted, anxious, or carrying burdens you were never meant to carry?In Psalm 23, David reveals the source of true peace. Written after a lifetime of battles, betrayal, hardship, and loss, this familiar passage is more than comforting poetry. It's a battle-tested guide for finding rest, security, and confidence in God's care.In this message, Pastor Matt Shackelford explores how Jesus, the Good Shepherd, provides for His people, walks with them through life's darkest valleys, and leads them safely home.You'll Discover: Why anxiety often grows when we try to shepherd ourselves  What it means that "The Lord is my Shepherd"  How God restores people who have fallen and can't get back up  Why the valley is often where we learn to trust God most  The difference between the absence of danger and the presence of the Shepherd  How God's goodness and mercy follow believers throughout their lives  Why Psalm 23 is ultimately a picture of the gospel No matter what valley you're facing, you do not walk through it alone. The Shepherd is with you. Scripture: Psalm 23

Bishop Jim's insightful messages help others find THEIR METRON through M~otivation E~nlightenment T~ranscendence R~enewal O~utreach and N~etworking Learn more: www.bishinthenow.com Follow Jim Swilley on Youtube to see the videos live Sundays at 11:11 am – https://www.youtube.com/bishinthenow In this message, Bishop Jim Swilley launches a new series, Seated in Heavenly Places, exploring the idea that heaven is not merely a future destination but a present spiritual reality. Drawing from Ephesians 2, he challenges traditional concepts of striving for heaven and instead teaches that believers are already seated with Christ in higher dimensions of consciousness and awareness. He connects biblical concepts of joy, abundance, and spiritual maturity with ideas of vibration, authenticity, gratitude, and emotional well-being. The central theme is that fullness of joy is not dependent on circumstances but is a state of being that can be cultivated through gratitude, self-awareness, generosity, and living authentically. Key Takeaways 1. We Are Already Seated in Heavenly Places Bishop centers the teaching on Ephesians 2:4-6, emphasizing that believers are not trying to get to heaven someday but are already participating in heavenly realities now. Scripture: Ephesians 2:4-6 “And raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” He explains that sitting represents completion and rest rather than striving. Quote: “We’re not trying to get to heaven. We’re from heaven.” — Bishop Jim Swilley 2. Joy Is More Than Happiness The message distinguishes between temporary happiness and what Jesus described as “fullness of joy.” Scriptures: John 15:11 John 16:24 Nehemiah 8:10 Jesus repeatedly spoke of joy becoming “full,” which Bishop presents as a higher state of spiritual living rather than an occasional emotional experience. Quote: “There’s joy, and then there’s fullness of joy.” — Bishop Jim Swilley 3. Protect Your Joy One of the strongest practical applications is the idea that people must become guardians of their own joy. Rather than allowing circumstances, old wounds, or difficult people to dictate emotional states, Bishop encourages listeners to consciously maintain a higher perspective. Quote: “If there’s things in your life that are draining your joy, either have the courage to get rid of it, get it out of your life, or change the way you think about it.” — Bishop Jim Swilley 4. Heaven and Hell Are Present Experiences Rather than viewing heaven and hell exclusively as future destinations, Bishop presents them as realities experienced in daily life. Quote: “Some of y’all ain’t scared of going to hell because you already been to hell.” — Bishop Jim Swilley He describes “streets of gold” as a metaphor for abundance, peace, and living from a consciousness of provision rather than lack. 5. Gratitude Raises Your Awareness A recurring theme is that gratitude shifts perception and opens people to greater joy. Scripture: Psalms 100:4 “Enter his gates with thanksgiving.” Bishop suggests that gratitude should not wait for favorable circumstances but become a daily practice. Quote: “Why can’t you just be happy that you woke up this morning?” — Bishop Jim Swilley 6. Generosity Creates Joy One of the most powerful personal stories in the message involved Bishop blessing a healthcare worker who had helped him. The lesson was that giving often produces more joy in the giver than receiving does. Scripture: Acts 20:35 “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Quote: “I was so much happier about that than if somebody had given me a hundred dollars.” — Bishop Jim Swilley 7. Authenticity Is Essential Bishop teaches that authentic living is directly connected to joy and emotional health. When people hide behind roles, expectations, or false identities, they disconnect from the fullness of who they are. Quote: “You’re never going to have fullness of joy when you’re frontin’.” — Bishop Jim Swilley 8. Your Narrative Shapes Your Reality A major practical takeaway is the importance of refusing to continually revisit old wounds and painful stories. While healing requires processing the past, growth requires eventually creating a new narrative. Scripture: Philippians 3:13 “Forgetting those things which are behind.” Quote: “You already dealt with this. That’s done. I’m not doing time travel backwards and bringing up old stuff.” — Bishop Jim Swilley Main Scripture Focus: Ephesians 2:4-6 “And raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” This passage serves as the foundation for the entire series, framing heavenly living as a present reality characterized by joy, abundance, peace, gratitude, and spiritual awareness rather than merely a future hope. Memorable Quote “When you learn to get your joy up there and walk in the fullness of joy, you have to get real protective of it.” — Bishop Jim Swilley

Jun 14th - Buen Camino, with Rev. Dr. Steven Koski. A Spacious Christianity, First Presbyterian Church of Bend, Oregon. Scripture: Psalm 46.Ever feel like life is moving faster than your soul can keep up? This Sunday, we're talking about what it means to slow down, loosen your grip a bit, and let yourself be carried by grace and the kindness of others. It is about learning to receive help without shame and noticing the small, holy moments in an ordinary day.Join us online or in person this Sunday. You are welcome here, just as you are.Join us each Sunday, 10AM at bendfp.org, or 11AM KTVZ-CW Channel 612/12 in Bend.  Subscribe/Follow, and click the bell for alerts.At First Presbyterian, you will meet people at many different places theologically and spiritually. And we love it that way. We want to be a place where our diversity brings us together and where conversation takes us all deeper in our understanding of God.We call this kind of faith “Spacious Christianity.” We don't ask anyone to sign creeds or statements of belief. The life of faith is about a way of being in the world and a faith that shows itself in love.Thank you for your support of the mission of the First Presbyterian Church of Bend. Visit https://bendfp.org/giving/ for more information.Keywords:Camino de Santiago, pilgrimage, spiritual journey, transformation, be still, let go, mercy, kindness, presence, hurry, inner journey, outer journey, Buen Camino, spiritual awakening, nature's rhythms., presbyterian, church, online worship, bend, oregonFeaturing:Rev. Dr. Steven Koski, Rev. Sharon Edwards, Becca Ellis, Brave of Heart, GuestsSupport the show

06142026Psalm9joshrupnow Josh Rupnow Message given by guest speaker Josh Rupnow on June 14, 2026 at ElmCreek Community Church in Maple Grove, MN. Scripture: Psalm 9

God, I am afraid and I'm also reaching for you, for that is where I find my strength.Scripture: Psalm 56:3Keyword: Emotions; fear; strength; faith; help; peace; help.Best of, Summer

SCRIPTURE- Psalm 34:19-20"The LORD is close to the brokenhearted, saves those whose spirit is crushed. Many are the troubles of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him from them all."REFLECTION- Mary EllynMUSIC- "Luminous" by Two Lanes- "Dona Nobis Pacem" by Pianissimo BrothersNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

How can we grow in our Relationship with God? Pastor Jordan shares Thursday's devotional podcast from Bible Fellowship Church. [Scripture: Psalm 25:14]

God, you are within me and I stand strong because of that.Scripture: Psalm 46:5Keywords: Faith; within; core; strong; loved and seen; storm.Best of, Summer.

Today's Scripture: Psalm 40:1–3 What do you do when you've prayed, waited, done the work, and still feel stuck in the middle of a pit? In this episode, Dr. Alison Cook reflects on Psalm 40:1–3 and the kind of patience that isn't passive, polished, or emotionally detached—but deeply honest before God. This episode is for anyone who feels worn down by waiting and needs a reminder that God hears, turns toward, and meets us with love one small step at a time. We explore: *Why biblical patience doesn't mean suppressing your emotions *Why Christian hope is different from forced optimism *What it means to find “a firm place to stand” *How God forms a new song in us slowly Go Deeper: Episode 77: The Dark Night of the Soul: Why It Happens and What It Means Episode 99: Exploring a Broken Spirit & the Dark Night of the Soul with Christopher Cook Connect with Dr. Alison on Instagram: @dralisoncook Join 80,000+ Soul Menders in Dr. Alison's free email community for ongoing reflection and support. While Dr. Cook is a counselor, the content of this podcast and any of the products provided by Dr. Cook are not specific counseling advice nor are they a substitute for individual counseling. The content and products provided on this podcast are for informational purposes only.‍ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Being present with the brokeness (material and immaterial) in our own bodies and the bodies of others is a difficult thing. But we have a God who entered our broken humanity to be in solidarity with us. Will we honor his presence with us in this brokenness and allow him to be at home with us in those broken places? Even there, he is holding us until the coming age of full renewal. Scripture: Psalm 139:7-10

Scripture: Psalm 119:57-64Preacher: Seth Brill

Pastor Mike Peavy shares a message on God's heart for every generation. Through Psalm 145 and the life of Abraham, discover the importance of praising God, declaring His greatness, and passing faith on to the next generation. Scripture: Psalm 145:1-4; Genesis 15:1-6; Genesis 17:1-8

Scripture: Psalm 73:1-3, 12-28

Scripture: Psalm 15

Deliver Me From My Suffering Mark Donaldson Sermon given by Pastor Mark Donaldson on June 7, 2026 at ElmCreek Community Church in Maple Grove, MN. Scripture: Psalm 6

Episode Summary We've domesticated Psalm 23. We've turned it into background noise for grief and decoration for walls. But David wrote this psalm with dirt under his fingernails — as a shepherd who knew exactly what it cost to keep sheep alive. This week, Steve McKenzie opens "The God Who Is…" — an 8-week summer series through the Psalms — by recovering what Psalm 23 actually says. It is not a poem about peaceful places. It is a gritty, oxygen-giving declaration about who God is and what that means for people who are running out of steam. What's Covered The Name Behind the Shepherd — YAHWEH is the most holy, most terrifying designation for God in Scripture: self-sufficient, timeless, inexhaustible. He needs nothing. He lacks nothing. And he has personally attached that name to the word shepherd — and made it yours. Why Rest Is Impossible — and Why That Matters — Sheep cannot lie down on command. Four conditions must be met: freedom from fear, friction, flies, and famine. Every one of them is the shepherd's job. Cast Sheep — A cast sheep has rolled onto its back and cannot get up. Legs flailing, unable to breathe, slowly dying. The shepherd finds it, flips it, massages blood back into its legs, and holds it until it can stand. This is what "restores my soul" means in Hebrew. The Valley Is Not a Detour — The Wadi Kelt is a real ravine in the Judean wilderness — deep shadow, flash floods, predators. And it is the right path. You cannot reach the high pastures without walking through it. A Table in Enemy Territory — Middle Eastern hospitality law: a chief who fed a fugitive at his table placed that person under full protection. God doesn't wait for your enemies to disappear. He sets a table in the middle of your crisis. What's Really Chasing You — Radaph (Hebrew) means to chase down and overtake with violent intent — the same word used for Pharaoh's chariots. You thought something was hunting you. Look back. It's Goodness and Faithful Love. Scripture — Psalm 23 (CSB) The Lord is my shepherd; I have what I need. He lets me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside quiet waters. He renews my life; he leads me along the right paths for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff — they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Only goodness and faithful love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord as long as I live. Take the Next Step Subscribe so you don't miss a week. Share this episode with someone who's exhausted and barely holding on. And if you're in the area — come find us Sunday.  

Scripture: Psalm 119:49-56Preacher: Timothy Gatewood

Today's Scripture: Psalm 46:1–7 When life feels unsteady, our bodies often know before our minds do. We tighten, scan, spiral, and reach for control—trying to make uncertainty disappear before we let ourselves rest. Today's episode walks through Psalm 46 and the promise that God is not our escape from trouble, but our ever-present help in trouble. In this episode, we explore: *The difference between spiritual grounding and spiritual bypassing *What Psalm 46 teaches us about refuge, strength, and control *How to return to God's presence when life feels unstable *One small embodied practice for finding steadiness today Go Deeper: Start reading about inner attachment, when you preorder The Secure Soul Connect with Dr. Alison on Instagram: @dralisoncook Join 80,000+ Soul Menders in Dr. Alison's free email community for ongoing reflection and support. While Dr. Cook is a counselor, the content of this podcast and any of the products provided by Dr. Cook are not specific counseling advice nor are they a substitute for individual counseling. The content and products provided on this podcast are for informational purposes only.‍ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SCRIPTURE- Psalm 103:12-13"As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our sins from us. As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him."REFLECTION- JeffMUSIC- God of Day and God of Darkness by Marty HaugenNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Today's Scripture: Psalm 102:18Where are your eyes? Who's on your heart?A VIBRANT church is a church with eyes forward on the next 100 years, trusting in Jesus.

Scripture: Psalm 42:1-6Resources for a life of following Jesus, every day, everywhere, with everyone.

Scripture: Psalm 27

"A Biblical Exploration of Life, Death, & Eternity: Teach Us to Number Our Days, that we May Gain a Heart of Wisdom"Scripture: Psalm 90:12Messenger: Apostle Suzanne M Howard

Today's Scripture: Psalm 8:1-9 Have you ever looked up at the sky and felt both small and strangely held? In this episode, Dr. Alison explores Psalm 8 and the healing power of wonder. We'll look at how awe quiets the anxious ego, helps the nervous system soften, and reminds us that being small does not mean being insignificant. We explore: *Why awe helps interrupt anxiety and overcontrol *The difference between humility and self-erasure *How wonder restores your sense of belovedness *Why childlike faith begins with receiving, not striving Go Deeper: Episode 142: Digital Detox—Surprising Insights from 7 Screen-Free Weeks with Monks & Amish Farmers Featuring Carlos Whittaker Connect with Dr. Alison on Instagram: @dralisoncook Join 80,000+ Soul Menders in Dr. Alison's free email community for ongoing reflection and support. While Dr. Cook is a counselor, the content of this podcast and any of the products provided by Dr. Cook are not specific counseling advice nor are they a substitute for individual counseling. The content and products provided on this podcast are for informational purposes only.‍ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've been feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or just plain exhausted, Psalm 23 offers a deeply comforting reminder: you are not walking through life alone.Taylor joins Ellen to walk through one of the most beloved passages in Scripture—Psalm 23. From “green pastures” to “the valley of the shadow of death,” Psalm 23 paints a picture of a Shepherd who leads, protects, and stays near even in the hardest seasons of life.Together, they talk about: what it means that the Lord is our Shepherd when life feels out of control  why anxiety often comes from our desire for control and certainty  how God invites us into real rest what it looks like to trust God in “valley seasons” that don't end quickly  how Scripture redefines suffering as a place of God's presence, not absenceFREE DOWNLOAD: All Scriptures mentioned in this episode are available in a beautifully designed printable resource to encourage and strengthen your time in God's Word. Click here for yours!Resources:Psalm 23 Free DownloadA Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23 by Phillip KellerScripture referenced:Ps. 23 | Prov. 3:5 | John 15:5 | Matt. 11:28 | Ps. 46:10 | Phil. 4:7 | Is. 43:2 | Ps. 34:18 | Rom. 8:28 | Is. 55:8-9 | Titus 3:5 | Matt. 11:28-30 | John 10:11Got a thought? Got a prayer request? Tell us here & we'll get back to you!Grow deeper in your love and understanding of God's word with The Courage For Life Study Bible! Discover more at CourageForLifeBible.com. In-Depth Bible Study Academy Course 1 Course 1 is Foundations. Learn the foundations of the Bible to grow in your knowledge of the Bible.Support the showYouTube channel ☕ Instagram Some of the links in this episode may be affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Today's Scripture: Psalm 121:1–8 When life feels uncertain, your nervous system may start scanning for safety—looking for reassurance, protection, or some solid place to land. In today's reflection on Psalm 121, Dr. Alison Cook explores how God meets us in that vulnerable place as the One who watches over our coming and going. We explore: *Why your nervous system scans for safety *How hypervigilance develops *Why “God watches over you” may take time to feel true in your body *How dwelling on scripture can slowly retrain your soul toward safety Go Deeper: Get my Masterclass "Healing the Wounds that Shape Us" when you preorder The Secure Soul Connect with Dr. Alison on Instagram: @dralisoncook Join 80,000+ Soul Menders in Dr. Alison's free email community for ongoing reflection and support. While Dr. Cook is a counselor, the content of this podcast and any of the products provided by Dr. Cook are not specific counseling advice nor are they a substitute for individual counseling. The content and products provided on this podcast are for informational purposes only.‍ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices